independent.co.uk
UK Cost of Living Crisis: Support and Challenges
Analysis of the UK's cost of living crisis, government support measures, and the impact on households.
English
United Kingdom
PoliticsEconomyLabour MarketUkFinanceEnergySocial Issues
Bank Of EnglandLabour PartyThe Trussell TrustPolicy In PracticeOfgem
Rachel Reeves
- When and by how much will benefit rates increase?
- Benefit rates will increase by 1.7 percent from April 2025, matching the September CPI figure. Campaigners argued for a higher increase, given inflation's recent fluctuations.
- What is the current status of the UK energy price cap?
- The energy price cap increased in October 2024, leading to higher energy bills for many households. This reflects the cost of wholesale energy, which is impacting consumer costs.
- What is the current state of the UK's cost of living crisis?
- The UK is experiencing a cost of living crisis, with inflation recently dropping below the Bank of England's target but costs remaining high. Millions struggle with household bills, groceries, and housing expenses.
- What financial support is available to UK households in November?
- Various support measures are available in November, including the continued Household Support Fund distributed by local councils, budgeting advance loans, charitable grants, energy provider assistance, council tax reductions, and the warm home discount.
- What financial measures did the Labour government introduce in its recent budget?
- The Labour government's recent budget included a 6.7 percent increase in the national living wage and a 1.7 percent uprating of benefits, but reports indicate that many low-income households still face severe financial difficulties.